Welcoming a newborn into the family is a magical experience, filled with love, joy & countless precious moments. As parents, you want to freeze these moments in time, preserving them for years to come. This is where a skilled newborn photographer comes in – someone who can capture the innocence, beauty & tenderness of your little one in stunning photographs.

However, choosing the right newborn photographer can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you navigate this important decision:

1. Start Early: Begin your search for a newborn photographer well before your due date. Most reputable photographers are booked months in advance and only accept so many newborn sessions a month so that they save room to move the session date based on when baby actually arrives. It is essential to secure your spot early to ensure availability when your baby arrives.
2. Research Thoroughly and Consider Style Preferences: Take the time to research different photographers in your area. Look at their portfolios, websites, and social media pages to get a sense of their style and the quality of their work. Pay attention to the lighting, composition, and overall aesthetic of their photographs as well as consistency in their portfolio.Newborn photographers often have different styles, ranging from posed and stylized shoots to lifestyle sessions that capture natural moments. Decide what style resonates with you and aligns with your vision for the photoshoot.
3. Check Reviews and Recommendations: Seek out reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge their satisfaction with the photographer’s services. Personal recommendations from friends or family members can also be invaluable in finding a trustworthy and talented photographer. Look at Google, Yelp and Facebook reviews to get a sense of customer satisfaction as well as how many reviews they have.
4. Evaluate Experience and Expertise: Experience matters when it comes to newborn photography. Look for photographers who specialize in newborns and have extensive experience working with babies. They should know how to handle newborns safely and comfortably while producing stunning images. Posing newborns is completed different then posing children that can sit up and walk so you definitely want something that is an expert in the newborn field. You want a professional photographer to document this moment you cant get back and not someone who is an amateur/hobbyist. Ask if your photographer is licensed and insured.
5. Assess Safety Practices: Safety should always be a top priority when photographing newborns. Ensure that the photographer follows safe posing techniques and maintains a clean and hygienic studio environment. Ask about their experience with newborns safety and what measures they take to ensure the baby’s well-being during the shoot. Do they wear a mask during the session? Have they had a TDap vaccine/booster in the last 10 years?
6. Discuss Packages and Pricing: Before booking a photographer, have a clear understanding of their pricing structure and what is included in their packages. Consider your budget and what you’re willing to invest in capturing these precious memories. Keep in mind that while price is important, quality should not be compromised. Ask if they offer a payment plan to help budget the session into smaller payments? Newborn photographers can range from $150 to thousands of dollars and it comes down to their skill set, education, equipment, invested props/baby items and more. You do not want to trust your newborn in the hands of an amateur/hobbyist so ensure they have the educational experience on safely handling and posing your newborn.
7. Schedule a Consultation: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule a consultation phone call with your top choices. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your ideas and preferences with the photographer, and see if you feel comfortable and confident working with them.
8. Trust Your Instincts and evaluate their communication: Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a newborn photographer. You should feel a connection with the photographer and have confidence in their ability to capture the essence of your newborn. Choose someone who not only has the technical skills but also shares your passion for preserving these precious moments. Also consider their communication through the process. Do they respond in a timely manner? Are they informative? Do you find their their website and emails explanatory? Are they easy to connect with?
9. Book in Advance: Once you’ve found the perfect newborn photographer, don’t hesitate to secure your booking. Remember, newborns grow and change so quickly, and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to capture those fleeting moments in stunning photographs.
10. Booking Baby’s 1st Year: Now that you found the right photographer, inquire if they offer any specials on reserving baby”s 1st year (Newborn, Milestones and 1st birthday). This way you can save some money but also build a rapport with a trusted photographer, so you don’t have to do this research all over again every time you have a need for documenting your precious family moments.

In conclusion, choosing the right newborn photographer is a decision that should not be taken lightly. By doing your research, considering your preferences, and trusting your instincts, you can find a talented photographer who will beautifully capture the magic of your newborn’s early days. Investing in professional newborn photography is a gift that will be cherished for a lifetime, allowing you to relive those precious moments again and again.

Ready to book your newborn session?

Click the link below to get in contact with Jenni Nikki Photography, who specializes in Baby’s 1st year. She will be with you through every milestone to document all your precious life moments.